Major NI outdoor event may go ahead in August - but ‘depends on many factors’

Whilst there is no certainty, they report that they are aiming to hold their popular event at the end of August.

The statement, posted on their Facebook page says: “IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

“We are all aware 2020 was a year when most outdoor events were cancelled due to the COVID-19 virus and sadly, we were unable to run the 2020 Shanes Castle May Day Steam Rally.

“Unfortunately, the virus is still with us and whilst vaccines to counteract it are now being rolled out, the general prognosis is that it will be many months before the situation returns to anything near normal.

“As a result, we have decided it will not be possible to run the 2021 Rally and it will therefore not take place as planned on the May Day Holiday Weekend of Sunday 2nd and Monday 3rd May 2021.

“However, we are investigating the possibility of running a Rally in Shanes Castle on the last weekend in August.

“This is by no means a certainty as it will depend on many factors, the most important being if we can comply with the rules and regulations regarding COVID-19 in place at that time i.e. lockdowns, social distancing and if large numbers are permitted to attend outdoor events without restrictions.

“We will be monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates on our Website and Facebook on a regular basis.

The Rally Organisers”

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